Stage House Tavern is a purveyor of fine American dining from the esteemed Chef Eric Hambrecht.

The Stage House Tavern History

The Stage House Tavern has been an integral part of the local community since the 17th century. The building, originally the Stage House Inn, was built in Scotch Plains in 1737 by John Sutton and served as the center of social, business, military and political circles. The Inn was a primary meeting place for troop messengers and officers during the Revolutionary War and it is said that General Lafayette spent time there. Legend also has it that when President Abraham Lincoln called in additional troops to defend the Union during the Civil War, rallies were held at the Inn.

A succession of innkeepers, one with the improbable name of Recompense Stanberry, helped to build the Stage House Inn’s reputation has one of the finest and most hospitable establishments in America. For 142 years after its opening, the Inn continued its traditional service to travelers from all corners of a growing nation. As commerce in the Colonies increased, stage lines were added reaching between New York and Philadelphia and the Inn became a regular port of call on the “Swift-Sure Stage Line.”

In the 1990s, the restaurant went on to become one of the best fine-dining restaurants in New Jersey. Purchased in 2003, the Stage House was transformed into a hotspot for quality tavern fare and fun nightlife—while maintaining its historic charm with bars from the original structure and the connecting barn. After seeing the success of the first Stage House location the owners decided to open a second and third location. In 2011, the Somerset location opened its doors. The space includes a large outdoor seating area and multiple bars and is a great destination for a date night under the stars. The Mountainside location opened in 2017 and caters towards your party needs, with space for up to 150 people.

No matter which location you choose to dine at, one thing remains the same: high quality food and service at a tremendous value in a beautiful setting.